RENTS have increased by nearly six per cent in the Highlands and Islands while across Scotland around 10 per cent of tenants are in arrears of one day or more.
The number of households in serious arrears — defined as two months or more — was 8505 in September.
In the Highlands and Islands rents are 5.6 per cent higher than a year ago, a survey by Your Move Scotland has revealed. The average price in the region in September stood at £610, well up on the £576 recorded in the same month last year.
The next highest rise was seen in Edinburgh and Lothians, already home to the highest rents in Scotland. Prices in the capital and surrounding area averaged £669 in September, having increased by 4.5 per cent in the last 12 months.
Only one region out of the five surveyed by Your Move Scotland posted a year-on-year price fall. The average rent in September 2017 in Glasgow and Clyde, was £541, compared with £579 in September 2016 — a six per cent decrease.
Outwith Edinburgh and the Lothians, the East of Scotland remains the cheapest place to rent in the country. Despite a 1.9 per cent annual price rice, the average rent now stands at £538 — lower than anywhere else surveyed.
The figures follow an announcement from the Scottish Government that older people are to have greater access to affordable homes.
Housing Minister Kevin Stewart said they would be offered a range of home ownership options for the first time.
The new government scheme would remove the requirement for a mortgage contribution and make older people a priority access group. It would also provide options that bring older people closer to family and care support, and are more affordable and suitable for their needs — including downsizing, or the option to buy a retirement or supported home.
The Minister made the announcement during a visit to the Link Group managed Abbey Place development in Paisley, a successful pilot project targeted at those aged 60 and over. The development includes 38 “independent living” homes, aimed at retirement living, through shared equity and social rent.
“People are living longer, which is to be celebrated, and I want to ensure they can access high quality and affordable housing that meets their needs and enables them to continue living independently,” he said.
“For the first time ever, older people will have more choice and empowered to make the best decision for them. That could mean downsizing, buying a retirement home, or moving to a property that brings them closer to the support they need.
“As people get older their housing needs can change — we are responding to that with new and innovative solutions. These schemes can provide older people the opportunity to realise the home ownership that works for them and ensures they are part of our bold ambitions for affordable housing.”
Councillor Marie McGurk, convener of Renfrewshire Council’s Communities, Housing and Planning Policy Board, added: “We are committed to providing high quality, affordable homes which suit the needs of older people in Renfrewshire to ensure they can remain in their own home and live independently for as long as possible.
“The Abbey Place development caters for the requirements of older people and has been a key element in the ongoing regeneration of Paisley.”
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